Context

Archaeological Survey of India has now taken up conservation work at Sannati Buddhist site near Kalaburagi.

About

• Sannati is an ancient Buddhist site on the bank of river Bhima near Kanaganahalli in Kalaburagi district of Karnataka.
• The ASI excavation at Sannati has unearthed the remains of a large stupa- known as the Shakya Maha Chaitya along with several sculptures that were strewn around.
• The stupa is likely to have been initially built during Asoka’s reign and later renovated by Satavahana kings, and has inscriptions depicting Buddhist art (depiction of Jataka tales and miracles of the Buddha) and culture in the region.
• It also has symbolic and anthropomorphic forms of the Buddha-these depict the Manusha Buddhas, depicted with symbols such as nagamucchalinda (serpent with five or more hoods), elephant, swan, dharmachakra and empty throne with cushions.
• The slabs are decorated with architectural motifs and flora and fauna, which form part of the festoons and garlands.
  
  

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) functions under the Ministry of Culture.
• It is the premier organization for archaeological researches and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.
• Maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance is the prime concern of the ASI.
• Besides, it regulates all archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
• It also regulates Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.